Body Contouring

OVERVIEW

Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a triple-board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in body contouring surgery in Pearland, Houston, and Katy, TX. This is a surgery that represents a variety of tightening procedures for individuals who wish to enhance certain areas of the body achieve dramatic results. For weight loss patients and new moms, in particular, these surgeries trim away and tighten loose and sagging skin, remove excess fat, and lift areas that droop. Surgeon skill, progressive medical engineering, and advanced product technology have allowed body contouring procedures to create life-changing results for men and women.

"Not only is Dr Lapuerta a wonderful board certified plastic surgeon that took amazing care of me and my needs but his staff is fabulous as well! I had a mommy makeover. It included a breast lift, breast augmentation (saline), full tummy tuck, lipo of the back love-handles, flanks, inner and outer thigh. I am 1 week 3 days post op and look and feel amazing already! I highly recommend Dr. Lapuerta and his staff!"

SURGICAL PROCEDURES

Body contouring surgery can reshape, tighten and rejuvenate almost any area of the body, creating a newer, sleeker contour. In many cases, liposuction will be included during surgery. Common areas addressed include the neck, arms, breasts, abdomen, hips, buttocks, knees and thighs. During the initial consultation, the areas of the body that cause concern will be assessed and a surgery plan will be discussed. Some procedures may be combined into one surgery. For some individuals, in order to achieve the desired results, multiple surgeries may need to be staged over time.

DURING/AFTER SURGERY

All body contouring procedures are performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. The duration of the surgery and the time spent in the hospital will depend on what surgery was performed, as well as how many were combined. While the recovery can be somewhat trying, the majority of patients feel that a new, tighter body is worth it. Patients will notice marked improvement with sagging features, as well as see a smoother skin appearance. Patients should adhere to a healthy lifestyle, and limit sun exposure so the surgical results are not compromised.’

EXPECTED COST

The price for a body contouring procedure will fluctuate. The final cost will be based on the extent of the surgery, how many techniques were combined and how many days are required in the hospital. During the initial consultation, a tailored surgical plan will be created and the costs will be outlined.

PLAN YOUR PROCEDURE

BODY CONTOURING FAQS

HOW MANY PROCEDURES?

During the consultation, the surgeon will assess the overall physical health of the patient to determine what procedures should be performed, and how many in a single setting. Depending how many body parts will be addressed, as well as the extent of the surgeries, certain procedures will be grouped together. In many cases, the upper body will be addressed in one surgery and the lower in another. Staging the procedures helps to reduce the risk of complications such as blood loss and infection, as well as minimize the length of time it takes to recover.

WEIGHT LOSS AND TIMING?

Body contouring is very common among weight loss patients. Most plastic surgeons will want the patient to be at or as close to their goal weight as possible. Patients who find it difficult to lose additional pounds because of loose and hanging skin can usually move forward with a skin reduction or body contouring procedure. This takes them over the “hump” and allows them to become more mobile which helps lose the final pounds.

SAME AS MOMMY MAKEOVER?

In some degree, yes. A mommy makeover simply groups together certain body contouring procedures to address the most common body parts affected by pregnancy. This usually entails the breast, abdomen, hips and buttocks. While body contouring itself can apply to many other areas on the body, a mommy makeover typically only addresses the areas affected by pregnancy, childbirth and nursing.

WHAT ABOUT SCARRING?

Some body contouring procedures will result in scarring. However, the surgeon will make every effort possible to minimize these scars. In most cases, they will be hidden under bathing suit garments and within the natural folds of the skin. Some scarring may be evident, but these will lighten over time. Most patients feel the results of a body contouring procedure are worth it and the scars become secondary.